Putin oversees naval drills, cites navy’s key role in security
President Vladimir Putin marked Russia’s Navy Day by overseeing large-scale military exercises, “July Storm,” highlighting the navy’s vital role in defending national sovereignty.
The drills, involving over 150 vessels, 120 aircraft, and 15,000 personnel, are being held across multiple regions, including the Pacific and Arctic. Putin said the exercises draw on lessons from the Ukraine conflict and aim to boost combat readiness, according to Xinhua.
He also announced plans to upgrade five Marine brigades into divisions to strengthen naval capabilities.
Due to security concerns, the traditional St. Petersburg naval parade was canceled, Xinhua reported.
13 dead, dozens missing after boat capsizes in Nigeria
At least 13 people have died and dozens remain missing after a wooden boat capsized in Nigeria’s Niger State, officials confirmed Sunday.
The overloaded vessel, carrying traders and farm produce from Gunu to a weekly market in the Shiroro area, overturned on Saturday. Only three people, including the boat operator, have been rescued so far, while the total number of passengers remains unknown due to the absence of a manifest, according to Xinhua.
Local divers and volunteers are continuing search and rescue efforts. Boat accidents are frequent in Nigeria, often linked to overloading and poor safety measures.
Trump criticises lack of recognition for Gaza aid
US President Donald Trump said the United States provided $60m in food aid to Gaza but received no acknowledgment. Speaking in Scotland alongside EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen, he called the assistance a humanitarian necessity despite the lack of recognition, according to Firstpost.
Trump also confirmed the discovery of Israeli hostages’ remains in Gaza and said Israel now faces difficult decisions. On Iran, he criticised the regime’s nuclear ambitions and warned against continued uranium enrichment.
WHO warns of alarming malnutrition in Gaza amid limited aid access
The World Health Organization says malnutrition in Gaza has reached “alarming levels,” with aid falling short despite a partial pause in Israeli military operations, BBC reported.
Jordan and the UAE airdropped 25 tonnes of aid on Sunday, and over 100 trucks entered Gaza. The UN welcomed the move but warned it’s not enough to prevent famine.
Despite the pause, nine people were reportedly killed near an aid route. Israel denied targeting civilians, claiming it only fired warning shots.
The UN says a third of Gaza’s population goes days without food, and a quarter face famine-like conditions. Over 100 deaths from malnutrition have been reported, according to BBC.
While Israel insists it allows aid, the UN cites ongoing restrictions. Locals remain doubtful the temporary pause will ease the crisis.
